“It’s a theme that plays well with fashion and elegance, ensuring all those in attendance can be inventive and adventurous with their style,” said Alexander Paschka, UICA exhibitions curator.

Translation: Creative clothing preferred – the odder, the better.

In 2011, UICA christened its home at 2 W. Fulton St. with fabulously dressed folk in black tights and pink feathered boas.

Last year, aliens illuminated by black light as well as party goers in little black dresses enjoyed the “alien chic” ambiance on the eve of ArtPrize 2012.

UICA’s “Gallery on Fulton” this year will be adorned with strong lines, shadows, and monochromatic ornaments to accentuate an unexpected mix of sophisticated décor and edgy performances.

ArtPrize 2013, the fifth annual exhibition and $560,000 competition, doesn’t open until Sept. 18 for 19 days of art in 169 spots, all but one in downtown Grand Rapids.

But Odd Ball guests get a first look at UICA’s exhibition titled “Play” and have the opportunity to meet many of the show’s featured artists.

The Odd Ball’s entertainment will feature the musical stylings of two Michigan bands. 800Beloved will kick off the night with their brand of melodic and sexy shoe-gazer pop, followed by the Detroit-based electronic music collective Haute to Death, which describes itself as a “dance-party and night-life brand.”

“The kindred spirit we see in Odd Ball and UICA goes beyond the celebration of aesthetics and into the celebration of community and cultural achievement,” Nowak said. “We're excited to help this party bridge the artistic communities of Grand Rapids and Detroit.”

Tickets for 2013 Odd Ball, which include hors d'oeuvres, two drink tickets and complimentary valet service, are $89 for UICA members and $129 for non-members.

The event is one of the non-profit arts organization’s most important fundraisers of the year.

Though UICA is beginning a new chapter in its existence through a partnership with Kendall College of Art and Design, proceeds from the event will directly advance UICA’s mission to provide the community with groundbreaking contemporary art.

“Odd Ball will be a true cultural exchange between East and West Michigan, facilitated by young, hip, and hedonistic creatives who seek to live in a culturally unified state, Paschka said. “Guests should plan on having the time of their lives.”